Staff

Advocacy on behalf of property developers, equity financiers and those in the wider community who enjoy the benefits of new and renewed urban communities.

Urban Taskforce Staff

Tom Forrest

Chief Executive Officer

Tom Forrest was Chief of Staff and Advisor to various NSW Ministers (Premier, Treasurer, Planning, Health and Olympics) before joining the senior ranks of the public service in the key Department of Premier and Cabinet and Transport portfolios. More recently, Tom assisted private sector clients, including commercial and residential developers, navigate often complex regulatory landscapes.

Stephen Fenn

Head of Policy, Planning and Research

Stephen Fenn has worked at senior levels as an adviser in both Government and Opposition in NSW, as well as executive roles in the Public Service. Stephen has experience in planning, economics, natural resource management and regional development, with a focus on policy and stakeholder engagement.

Nicola Baume

Manager – Events and Membership

Nicola generates information to our current and new members. She co-ordinates all events held throughout the year including lunches, industry briefings, committee networking events. She also manages the annual Development Excellence Awards and Property Person of the Year Award.

Benjamin Gellie

Planning, Research and Policy Analyst

Benjamin Gellie worked as in Construction Project Manager before continuing academic pursuits into Urban Research. Benjamin has worked as a researcher, assisting with the conception and facilitation of research projects in Europe and Australia. His foci include Governance, Urban Policy, Urban Planning and Urban Economics. Benjamin has been a business advisor, assisting with business development and funding and has founded multiple tech start ups in various sectors.

Tanja davis

Executive Assistant to CEO and Office Support Administrator

Tanja Davis joined the Urban Taskforce in April 2025 as Executive Assistant and Marketing Administrator. She brings a strong background in office administration, with experience spanning several professional sectors including insurance, communications, education, and disability services. Tanja holds a Bachelor of Arts from Charles Sturt University and has a particular interest in digital design for marketing and communications.